Ake Ripe For Cherries Picking

Nathan Ake is set for a sensational return to Bournemouth with the Cherries willing to shatter their club transfer record for the highly-rated central defender.

Bournemouth Echoreports that Chelsea are ready to cash in on the Dutchman who featured prominently in a loan spell at Dean Court during the first half of last season.

Surprisingly, Chelsea recalled him rather than let his development continue under the auspices of Eddie Howe and with the Blues consistency on their way to the Premier League title, Ake made just five appearances in all competitions for Antonio Conte.

Eddie Howe hasn’t hidden his admiration for the player whose last-minute goal delivered the winner in a 4 – 3 thriller against Liverpool. Bournemouth tried to complete a permanent move in the Janurary window but the London club weren’t in the mood to strike a deal.

With John Terry departing and moves to bring in Juventus Leonardo Bonnuci and Virgil Van Dijk, Ake is surplus to requirements. Antonio Conte needs experience in his squad as they look to retain the Premier League title and conquer Europe.

The Champions League is a priority for Chelsea, determined to make up for the lost time of Jose Mourinho’s disastrous reign and their absence from Europe’s top table.